Zach Randolph questioned, not charged in Christmas Eve altercation

(WMC-TV) - Memphis Grizzlies player Zach Randolph avoided criminal charges after a couple told police he started a fight in a nightclub men's room.

Randolph is one of the most popular players on the Grizzlies roster. He is also a giver, as evidenced this week during a ticket giveaway in the lobby of the FedEx Forum.

"I love to give back," said Randolph. "Been blessed, fortunate enough in this position, and these people appreciate it."

Memphis police said Randolph gave them his full cooperation while investigating an alleged assault at the Silver Spoon Restaurant and Lounge in Hickory Hill, where a couple claimed Randolph incited an assault during a Christmas Eve party.

According to a police report, Randolph confronted the couple who were together in a stall inside the men's room. The altercation continued into the club, where words and punches were reportedly exchanged.

At one point, the report states the woman yelled at Randolph, "you a tall, lanky, non-playing, ugly (expletive)."

"I think she might have known he was a basketball player and might could get something out of it," said Jasmine Sherman, who lives near the club.

Sherman's advice for Randolph and other public figures was to avoid situations like this one.

"You got to be careful," said Sherman. "Everybody going to try to get you, got to stay away from sticky situations."

Police said all those involved in the club altercation were questioned, including Randolph.

Randolph was not charged after some of the alleged victims' statements reportedly did not add up.

Action News 5 was unable to reach the couple who claimed Randolph assaulted them. The Grizzlies public relations department did not return Action News 5's e-mail or phone call Thursday.